Politics

New Year Message: President Buhari Promises Improved Security

By Web News 744

President Muhamadu Buhari on Friday promised to re-energise and reorganize the nation’s security apparatus and personnel of the Armed Forces and the police.

The President in his New year broadcast said this was with a view to enhance the capacity of the agencies ‘to engage, push back and dismantle the operations of both internal and external extremist and criminal groups waging war against some communities in some parts of the country’.

The President also promised to engage the youths.

“Your voices have been heard and we would continue to listen to you, and all the key stakeholders who are committed to the unity of Nigeria to ensure that every region of this nation is safe for us all, while guaranteeing that the future is also secure for the coming generation.

“Our young people are our most valuable natural resource, at home and abroad. Their ingenuity, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit is evident to all. Many of our young people are excelling in various spheres of life including sports, entertainment, information and communication technology, commerce and are globally recognised as achievers.

“As a Government, we are committed to actively engaging with the creative energies of our young people. In this regard, we will partner with the legislature to develop an enabling environment to turn their passions into ideas that can be supported, groomed and scaled across regions. This will create vast opportunities in fintech, agriculture, business process start-ups, and in the entertainment industry. He said

                              FULL TEXT OF SPEECH

NEW YEAR SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

1ST JANUARY 2021

My fellow countrymen and women,

First, I would like to thank and praise the Almighty who saw us through the year 2020 and has given us the opportunity to witness the start of another new year. We especially thank God because the year 2020 was one of the most trying years since our existence as a Nation.

2. This can also be said about all other nations around the world, due to the challenges posed on our collective humanity by the novel COVID-19 pandemic.

3. While acknowledging that 2020 was a very tough year, we saw this year put to test our national resilience and ability to survive these tough times and also gave renewed hope that we will again brave any storms that lay ahead in 2021 and beyond.

4. As we celebrate the opportunity before us in this New Year 2021, we must also acknowledge the passing away of our brothers and sisters who didn’t make it into this New Year. May their souls rest in perfect peace.

5. We must remember that we also celebrated the historic occasion of our sixty years as an independent and sovereign country on October 1st 2020. In the spirit of hope and gratitude, I would like to remind us again that as a country on the difficult journey to nationhood and greatness, we have confounded the many pundits at home and around the world who never gave the newly-born country that emerged unto the world stage on 1st October 1960 a chance of surviving much longer than a few years.

6. Yet, here we are, 61 years by the next anniversary in October, and not only are we here, we are standing tall in the comity of nations as one country united under the will of God and also actively growing that indivisible Nigerian spirit that has enabled us, year after year, decade after decade, to weather all stormy waters and emerge stronger and better where others have fallen and disintegrated. This nation, this Nigeria will survive and thrive.

7. In this journey to nationhood, we have experienced the highs and lows. 2020 indeed came with a lot of challenges ranging from security and economic issues across the regions to understandable protests that were mainly led by our youths and served notice to the demand for police reforms and accountability. This government heard, this government listened and this government is committed to fulfilling the five demands of our youths, fully understanding that we all wish well for Nigeria.

8. In the midst of all these challenges, I had initially pledged that as your elected President and Commander-in-Chief, I would ensure that these ongoing challenges will be faced head-on with renewed determination and with all the appropriateness and urgency required. Your voices have been heard and we would continue to listen to you, and all the key stakeholders who are committed to the unity of Nigeria to ensure that every region of this nation is safe for us all, while guaranteeing that the future is also secure for the coming generation.

9. I wish to also use this occasion of New Year to reaffirm my commitment to the people of Nigeria, especially the youth who need our collective encouragement and support. In securing this nation we need to secure the future of our youth.

10. Our young people are our most valuable natural resource, at home and abroad. Their ingenuity, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit is evident to all. Many of our young people are excelling in various spheres of life including sports, entertainment, information and communication technology, commerce and are globally recognized as achievers.

11. As a Government we are committed to actively engaging with the creative energies of our young people. In this regard, we will partner with the legislature to develop an enabling environment to turn their passions into ideas that can be supported, groomed and scaled across regions. This will create vast opportunities in fintech, agriculture, business process startups and in the entertainment industry.

12. The year 2021 will indeed be a year where we will work to reinforce the hopes of fellow Nigerians in the vision of a united and progressive Nigeria. This administration would continue focusing on delivering key strategic priorities under our “SEA” – (Security, Economy and Anti-Corruption) Agenda. Some of the key priority areas we would direct our attention and strengths to include:

ON THE SECURITY:

13. Re-energizing and reorganizing the security apparatus and personnel of the armed forces and the police with a view to enhance their capacity to engage, push back and dismantle the operations of both internal and external extremist and criminal groups waging war against our communities in some parts of the country.

14. In line with the current security challenges, we are facing as a Nation, I would like to reiterate the promise I made recently when over 300 of our boys abducted from Government Science Secondary School, Kankara were successfully rescued by our security operatives.

15. The professionalism shown by our Security Forces and the collaboration from all stakeholders across both State and Federal Governments that led to the successful rescue of the boys is proof that Nigeria has the internal capacity to decisively deal with terror attacks on our citizens.

16. However, we recognize that we rapidly have to move to a more proactive and preemptive posture to ensure that these sorts of traumatic incidents do not become a norm. Our administration is fully aware of the responsibility we have to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians, and we will not relent in learning and adapting to changing threats to our national security and civic wellbeing.

ON THE ECONOMY:

17. Our focus is on revamping the economy through the national economic diversification agenda that supports the primary goal of national food self-sufficiency. This has helped reduce the growing food related inflationary figures and have in considerable measure positively impacted our food security status during the long months of the pandemic lock down.

18. We are also currently rebuilding our national infrastructure base and, in the process, introducing transformation through the rehabilitation, modernization, and expansion of the railway system, national roads and bridges both in rural and urban centres, alongside the airports and seaports.

19. The reforms we have put in place in the power sector would guarantee increased efficiency in our drive to significantly expand the generation and distribution of electricity for use in homes and factories.

20. As an administration we are currently undertaking a series of special interventions designed to boost job creation and support the entrepreneurial drive of our youths.

21. With the recent opening of our borders, we expect that the pent-up demand of legitimate cross-border and international trade will boost the fortunes of the many small businesses and agricultural enterprises that depend on Nigeria’s trade and commerce.

22. The message to our West African neighbours is that Nigeria is once again fully open for those willing to conduct business in a fair and equitable way.

ANTI-CORRUPTION:

23. On the anti-corruption drive of our administration, we have recorded substantial gains so far and this year, we are committed to continuing along the path of eradicating corruption, through collaboration with all the arms of Government to effectively prosecute this fight.

24. While we would be working with the Legislature to enact laws that would strengthen this fight, we would also be looking at reviewing some of our laws which would ensure that this fight is more effective. On the part of the executive, we would ensure the diligent and timely prosecution of corruption cases, while appealing to the judiciary to ensure that corruption cases are dispensed with expeditiously.

25. The persistence of various forms of violence has meant that in the most affected parts of the country, the fabric of inter-communal harmony woven through years of investment of effort at building trust, mutual respect, and harmony has been threatened.

26. Insecurity as a challenge has direct repercussions on our national economic stability, growth, and development, setting us back at critical points through the destruction of public and private investments.

27. In parts of the country where chronic poverty, social exclusion, and disillusionment among sections of the youth were already a problem, the cycles of violence that have been unleashed by mindless groups like Boko Haram and others have thwarted the efforts of government to undertake the social policy and associated investments that could make a huge difference in the quality of life of our citizens.

28. I am aware that for some of our compatriots, the progress we have registered since the inception of this administration is not nearly as fast or as sufficient as they would wish. I do not begrudge them their views in so far as they signify a wish, in which we all share, for only the very best for our country.

29. Nevertheless, I call upon all Nigerians to carefully recall the circumstances of our coming to office, the facts on the ground and the resources at our disposal since 2015 with the accomplishments of this administration.

30. As a people, we have shown admirable resilience in the face of every adversity, an unmatched capacity to recover speedily from every setback, an unparalleled generosity of spirit when we resolve our differences, and a constant readiness to invest faith and hope in the destiny we share as a united country built on the diversity of its peoples.

31. It is these attributes that underpin the Nigerian spirit of “can do, will do” that gives me hope that we shall yet get to destination and fulfill our calling together, especially with the solid resolutions we are setting in this new year.

32. Keeping our country on a forward march is a duty which we all have and share. In this regard, keeping our country safe from a resurgent cycle of COVID-19 as this administration finalizes its plans to procure and efficiently and effectively distribute the COVID-19 vaccines, I urge you all fellow citizens to observe strict COVID-19 prevention protocols.

33. As your elected President, my pledge to you is the same as it has always been; I will play my part fully and without fear or favour. I invite all of us to do the same. It is what we owe to the founding generation of our beloved country and also to the coming generation. It is what we desire for national prosperity for all demands.

34. Long Live the Nigerian spirit of oneness, togetherness, and unity. Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I wish you a Happy and prosperous New Year.

May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

FRCN Abuja

Politics

(Updated): President Buhari Signs 2021 Budget

By Web News 578

President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday signed the 2021 budget into law at the Council Chambers of the State House in Abuja.

This is coming ten days after both chambers of the National Assembly approved N13.6 trillion (13,588,027,886,107) against the N13.08 trillion proposed by the president in October.

The lawmakers increased the budget by the sum of N505, 607,317,942.

The signed budget comprises the total Capital Supplementation of N1,060,751,051,650.

Statutory Transfer stands at N496,528,471,273; recurrent Expenditure of N5,641,970,060,680 and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 3.00 Per cent.

It also provides N3,324,380,000 trillion for debt servicing while N5,641,970,060,680 is for Recurrent Expenditure; and N4,125,149,354,222 for Capital Expenditure.

Also, the president signed the 2020 Finance Bill into law.

Among those present at the signing of the budget include the Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Ahmad Lawan and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Others at the Council Chamber were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and some cabinet ministers.

FRCN Abuja

Security

President Buhari Welcomes Release of Kankara Students

By Web News 569 Post a comment

President Muhammadu Buhari has welcomed the release of kidnapped students of Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, Katsina State, describing their safe return as a big relief to their families, the entire country and international community.

In a short remark shortly after their release was announced on Thursday night, President Buhari expressed the nation’s appreciation for the steps taken by all involved to make their release possible.

President Buhari specifically cited what he called the “spirit of partnership and the collaborative efforts of the government of Katsina, Zamfara and military leading to the release.’’

He commended the nation’s intelligence agencies, the military and police force for providing the environment for safe release of the hostages.

“The Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, and the army worked extremely hard. As soon as I got the information I congratulated them. The Armed Forces know their job. They have been well trained and properly motivated,” he said.

On the issue of detainees held elsewhere in the country by either terrorists or bandits, the President gave assurances that his administration is aware of its responsibility to protect the life and property of the Nigerians.

President Buhari urged the citizens to be patient and fair to the administration as it deals with the problems of security, economy and corruption.

He noted that the administration was fully aware that it was elected to resolve challenges.

“When we came, we made efforts that yielded the return of the Chibok Girls. When a similar incident of school abduction happened at Dapchi, we successfully returned all but one of the more than one hundred abductees. When this latest incident happened, we put in our efforts and today we have this result to show.”

The President pointed to the successes of the administration in dealing with security in the South South and North East.

He said the North West now presents a challenge which his administration is determined to deal with.

He said: “We have a lot of work to do, especially now that we have re-opened the borders. It is unfortunate that the bandits and terrorists continue to get weapons even under the circumstances of the border closure. We are going to dare them. We will deal with all that,” the President further assured.

He prayed for the full recovery of the students, whom he said had endured significant hardships in the course of their six-day ordeal.

The President assured of the determination of his administration to return to safety all citizens held against their will.

FRCN Abuja

Politics

President Buhari Joins FEC Meeting from Daura

By Web News 789

President Muhammadu Buhari joined the 28th virtual Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo from his home, Daura in Katsina State.

The National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Munguno (rtd), said the Muslim opening prayer while the minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, said the Christian prayer.

In attendance are the Permanent Secretary, Ecological Funds Office, Mrs. Habiba Lawal, standing in for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, who is self-isolating

Fifteen ministers physically attending the meeting are the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, Works and Housing, Babtunde Fashola, Federal Capital Territory, Mohammed Bello, Education, Adamu Adamu, Agriculture, Sabo Nanono, Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami and Aviation, Hadi Sirika, Defence, Maj.-Gen. Bashir Magashi (rtd), Environment, Mohammed Abubakar, Police Affairs, Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva and Minister of State for the Environment, Sharon Ikpeazu.

The Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan and other ministers are participating in the weekly Council meeting from their various offices in Abuja.

Bello Wakili

Politics

President Buhari Presides over Virtual FEC Meeting

By Web News 738

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently presiding over the virtual Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.

Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Gambari, National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Munguno (retd), are physically present.

Eleven ministers are physically attending the meeting. They are Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, Works and Housing, Babtunde Fashola, Industrial, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo, Education, Adamu Adamu, Special Duties, Geroge Akume, Minister of State Budget and National Planning, Clement Agba, Minister of State Science and Technology, Mohammed Abdullahi, and Minister of State Power, Goddy Agba.

The Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan and other ministers are participating in the weekly council meeting from their various offices in Abuja.

Bello Wakili

Politics

President Buhari Mourns Former Civilian Governor Of Kaduna

By Web News 623

President Muhammadu Buhari joins government and people of Kaduna State in mourning a former civilian governor of the state, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, whose passing will be sorely missed by all Nigerians, who have diligently followed his antecedents as a voice for the voiceless.

In a statement signed by the senior special assistant to the President on media and publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu said Buhari believes Alhaji Musa reflected the passion and vigour that heralded Nigeria’s independence, which steadily translated into activism for return to democracy at the height of military interregnum and has remained steadfast in the call for good and inclusive governance.

The President affirms that Balarabe left a bold footprint on Nigeria’s democracy, and his role in promoting good governance and development will always be remembered and appreciated by posterity.

President Buhari prays that the almighty God will grant his soul eternal rest, and comfort his family, friends and associates.

Bello Wakili

Politics

President Buhari Appeals for Peace, Brotherhood

By Web News 775

As the Judicial panel of inquiry set up by the Lagos State Government, one of the more dozen states todo so, starts sitting on Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his full support and optimism that it will assist the nation to give justice to peaceful protesters who lost their lives, security men who were murdered and property owners whose assets were vandalized and looted.
The President, who said he had all along avoided going into a debate about the Lekki Toll Gate incidents until all the facts are established, appealed to the people all over the country to maintain peace and brotherhood as the machinery of the government and the wheel of justice turn against the perpetrators of murder, arson, stealing, rape, assault and malicious damage to public and private property.
The President advises that peace, brotherhood, and inter communal harmony are central to our ethos and urges Nigerians “not to turn against one another in hate.”
He said it is important that the police and other security agencies move everywhere to restore calm and normalcy as quickly as possible.
President Buhari said while his administration is working hard through many pragmatic ways to reduce the hardship of the millions of our unemployed, poor citizens and those whose lives have been thrown into disarray by the harsh economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, he warned that resort to widespread attacks and the organized looting and plundering of public and private property in many states are inimical to public good and stand condemned.
A government that has launched a massive crackdown on corruption, brought in strong laws for a decisive battle against corruption, pursues loot recovery at home and abroad, and taken strong decisions against those who thought they were above the law, will not fold its arms when an otherwise legitimate and peaceful protest is turning into free-for-all vandalism and looting.
While the administration has, for its part, blocked so many means of looting public money in a war against corruption, it is the expectation that all civil authorities, community and religious leaders in the country must rise against the organized looting and plunder we are witnessing in parts of the country. Families must turn back children who bring home unaccounted goods, in the same way wives must ask their husbands to return looted items brought home.
What is more, is that criminal actions as we have so far witnessed can weaken and erode the confidence of our people and that of foreign businesses in investing in the economy. Looting and vandalism will hurt trade and investment growth in our country, both large and small industries, as well as our hardworking people in the informal sectors of the economy.
These incidents do not reflect well on any society. They are wrong and condemnable and should not be supported by reasonable members of the society.
In line with this, President Buhari commends the decision of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice to prosecute 229 suspects arrested by the police for allegedly using the #EndSARS protest to destroy and loot public and private property.
As mentioned in two successive statements on the issues, the President and his administration have taken note of the grievances of the people. “We have heard you loud and clear,” he said, and has shown a clear determination to take all necessary measures to address the complaints. The violence must stop.
President Buhari also condemned hate messages and eviction notices to ethnic and religious groups asking Nigerians to take pride in the fact that our diverse people have been living with one another in harmony for ages. The right of all citizens to live and work in any part of the country is a constitutional right and will be defended by the government.


Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 25, 2020

Security

ENDSARS was hijacked and misdirected – President Buhari

By Web News 870

President Muhammadu Buhari has intimated former heads of State how the ENDSARS protests got hijacked and misdirected,

Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity), Femi Adesina made this known in a statement.

                                      TEXT

How Endsars Protest was Hijacked; Misdirected, President

Buhari Tells Former Heads Of State

It is unfortunate that the initial genuine and well-intended protest of youths in parts of the country against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) was hijacked and misdirected, President Muhammadu Buhari told former Heads of State and Presidents of Nigeria, Friday in Abuja.

In a virtual meeting with the former leaders, President Buhari reiterated that the Government will not fold its arms and allow miscreants and criminals continue to perpetrate acts of hooliganism in the country.

At the meeting were all living past leaders, including: Gen. Yakubu Gowon, President Olusegun Obasanjo, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, Chief Ernest Shonekan, Gen. Abulsalami Abubakar, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The President recounted the initial concessions made by his administration on the demands of youths protesting against the excesses of some members of the SARS.

He recalled that the youths had demanded that the squad be disbanded, and further articulated the additional demands, including:

”The immediate release of all arrested protesters.

”Justice for deceased victims of police brutality and appropriate compensation for their families.

”Setting up an independent body to oversee the investigation and prosecution of all reports of Police misconduct within 10 days.

”Psychological evaluation and re-training of all disbanded SARS officers before they can be re-deployed; and increase in Police salary.”

The President declared: ”We accepted all the demands and proceeded immediately to scrap SARS and started the process of addressing the other demands.

”Unfortunately, the protesters refused to call off the protest and engage the Government to address their grievances. Instead, they became emboldened and gradually turned violent.”

President Buhari expressed concern that in the mayhem that ensued, many lives have been lost, a number of public and private properties completely destroyed or vandalized.

Reiterating his pledge to Nigerians from the nationwide broadcast Thursday, the President reaffirmed:

”We will continue to improve good governance through our democratic process including through sustained engagement.

”We shall also continue to ensure that liberty and freedom, as well as the fundamental rights of all citizens are protected. Here, I want to also reaffirm our commitment to preserving the unity of this country.”

The President thanked the former Heads of State for attending the meeting and their invaluable comments, observations and advice, adding that ”Nigerians expect nothing less from responsible statesmen.”

Each of the former leaders commended President Buhari for steps taken so far to restore calm and order to the country and also applauded the presidential broadcast of Thursday as detailed and soothing to the country.

”I commend the speech of last night. The nation had been waiting. You made points that I believe need to be commended. Peaceful demonstration is part of democratic practice. The demands of the genuine protesters were accepted, and you are working on implementation. We commend you,” former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, said.

The former heads of state were unanimous in their view that generation of employment and growing the economy including through direct foreign investments were critical to checking youth restiveness.

They also expressed their condolences to the bereaved families of civilians, policemen and soldiers killed as a result of the violent protest, and reaffirmed the commitment to respect the fundamental rights of citizens, including for peaceful protest as enshrined in the Constitution.

The former Heads of State also condemned the divisive and inciting pronouncements of separatists, and were of the opinion that such acts should be stopped.

Equally, the former Leaders commended the actions taken by Governors to address the demands of the ENDSARS protesters and their efforts to check the excesses of those who perpetrated violent acts and conduct.

Finally, they called on youths to pursue peaceful means, in seeking redress through engagement with Government and encouraged further conversation with the youths and other stakeholders in the country.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 23, 2020

Politics

#ENDSARS Protests: Text of President Buhari’s Speech to the Nation

By Web News 916 Post a comment

ADDRESS TO THE NATION BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ON THE ENDSARS PROTESTS, 22ND OCTOBER, 2020

Fellow Nigerians,

It has become necessary for me to address you having heard from many concerned Nigerians and having concluded a meeting with all the Security Chiefs.

  1. I must warn those who have hijacked and misdirected the initial, genuine and well – intended protest of some of our youths in parts of the country, against the excesses of some members of the now disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
  2. On Monday 12th October, I acknowledged the genuine concerns and agitations of members of the public regarding the excessive use of force by some members of SARS.
  3. The choice to demonstrate peacefully is a fundamental right of citizens as enshrined in Section 40 of our Constitution and other enactments; but this right to protest also imposes on the demonstrators the responsibility to respect the rights of other citizens, and the necessity to operate within the law.
  4. As a democratic government, we listened to, and carefully evaluated the five-point demands of the protesters. And, having accepted them, we immediately scrapped SARS, and put measures in place to address the other demands of our youth.
  5. On approving the termination of SARS, I already made it clear that it was in line with our commitment to the implementation of extensive Police reforms.
  6. Sadly, the promptness with which we have acted seemed to have been misconstrued as a sign of weakness and twisted by some for their selfish unpatriotic interests.
  7. The result of this is clear to all observers: human lives have been lost; acts of sexual violence have been reported; two major correctional facilities were attacked and convicts freed; public and private properties completely destroyed or vandalised; the sanctity of the Palace of a Peace Maker, the Oba of Lagos has been violated. So-called protesters have invaded an International Airport and in the process disrupted the travel plans of fellow Nigerians and our visitors.
  8. All these executed in the name of the ENDSARS protests. I am indeed deeply pained that innocent lives have been lost. These tragedies are uncalled for and unnecessary. Certainly, there is no way whatsoever to connect these bad acts to legitimate expression of grievance of the youth of our country.
  9. The spreading of deliberate falsehood and misinformation through the social media in particular, that this government is oblivious to the pains and plight of its citizens is a ploy to mislead the unwary within and outside Nigeria into unfair judgement and disruptive behaviour.
  10. On the contrary, both our deeds and words have shown how committed this administration has been to the wellbeing and welfare of citizens, even with the steadily dwindling revenues, and the added responsibilities and restrictions due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
  11. Government has put in place measures and initiatives principally targeted at youths, women and the most vulnerable groups in our society. These included our broad plan to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in the next 10 years; the creation of N75 billion National Youth Investment Fund to provide opportunities for the youths and the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Survival Fund, through which government is:

a. paying three months salaries of the staff of 100,000 micro, small – and medium – enterprises,

b. paying for the registration of 250,000 businesses at the Corporate Affairs Commission,

c. giving a grant of N30,000 to 100,000 artisans; and

d. guaranteeing market for the products of traders.

  1. These are in addition to many other initiatives such as;

a. Farmermoni,

b. Tradermoni,

c. Marketmoni,

d. N-Power,

e. N-Tech and

f. N-Agro.

  1. No Nigerian Government in the past has methodically and seriously approached poverty-alleviation like we have done.
  2. With regard to the welfare of police personnel, the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission has been directed to expedite action on the finalization of the new salary structure of members of the Nigeria Police Force. The emoluments of other paramilitary services are also being reviewed upwards.
  3. In order to underscore the importance of education in preparing youths for the future, this administration has come up with a new salary structure and other incentives for our teachers.
  4. Let me at this point reaffirm the Federal Government’s commitment to preserving the unity of this country.
  5. We will continue to improve good governance and our democratic process, including through sustained engagement.
  6. We shall continue to ensure that liberty and freedom, as well as the fundamental rights of all citizens are protected.
  7. But remember that government also has the obligation to protect lives and properties, as well as the right of citizens to go about their daily businesses freely and protected from acts of violence.
  8. To our neighbours in particular, and members of the international community, many of whom have expressed concern about the ongoing development in Nigeria, we thank you and urge you all to seek to know all the facts available before taking a position or rushing to judgment and making hasty pronouncements.
  9. In the circumstances, I would like to appeal to protesters to note and take advantage of the various well-thought-out initiatives of this administration designed to make their lives better and more meaningful, and resist the temptation of being used by some subversive elements to cause chaos with the aim of truncating our nascent democracy.
  10. For you to do otherwise will amount to undermining national security and the law and order situation. Under no circumstances will this be tolerated.
  11. I therefore call on our youths to discontinue the street protests and constructively engage government in finding solutions. Your voice has been heard loud and clear and we are responding.
  12. And I call on all Nigerians to go about their normal businesses, and enjoin security agencies to protect lives and properties of all law abiding citizens without doing harm to those they are meant to protect. Let me pay tribute to officers of the Nigeria Police Force who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty.
  13. I would like to thank those state Governors, traditional and religious leaders who have appealed for calm and restraint. I also thank youth leaders who have restrained their followers from taking the law into their hands.
  14. This government respects and will continue to respect all the democratic rights and civil liberties of the people, but it will not allow anybody or groups to disrupt the peace of our nation.

Thank you all. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Security

President Buhari to Address the Nation Tonight

By Web News 904



President Muhammadu Buhari (R) in a chat with National security adviser, Babagana Monguno, during the national security council meeting at the State House, Abuja, on October 22.

Following detailed briefing by security chiefs on the current situation in the country, President Muhammadu Buhari will make a national broadcast, today, October 22, 2020 at 7pm, Media aide to the president, Bashir Ahmad wrote on twitter.

Television, radio and other electronic media outlets are enjoined to hook up to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and Radio Nigeria respectively for the broadcast.

National security adviser, Babagana Monguno has earlier on Thursday said major actions would be taken soon, over the current insecurity in the country.

“I believe in the next couple of hours, Mr President will come up with certain solutions that will be agreeable to the entire federation, he had said.

There has been reports of lootings, vandalism, shootings and jailbreaks in parts of the country, in the aftermath of EndSARS protests.

FRCN Abuja

Environment

Floods: President Buhari Authorizes Assistance to 12 States

By Web News 1055

President Muhammadu Buhari has taken stock of the flood situation in the country and authorized the dispatch of special teams to deliver urgently needed assistance to 12 states most ravaged by the seasonal rains.

The states to receive the teams conveying reinforcement of reliefs and other equipment through the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, are: Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, Edo, Anambra, Delta, Kano, Jigawa, Rivers, Bayelsa and Adamawa.

Some of the states that have been reached with the first wave of support from the Presidency are: Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Sokoto, Jigawa and Kaduna.

President Buhari once again expressed the nation’s sympathy to the victims of the floods, many of whom had lost family members, homes and valued investments in agricultural crops and livestock.

The President underscored the need for additional coordination between the federal and state government agencies dealing with the issues, and for improved forecast and warning systems to avert similar calamities.

  Garba Shehu,

  Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Buhari.

  17-10-2020

Lifestyle

President Buhari Felicitates with UI Lecturer, Aderinoye at 70

By Web News 947

President Muhammadu Buhari joins the academia in celebrating with former Deputy Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission and Executive Secretary of National Commission for Nomadic Education, Prof. Rashid Adewumi Aderinoye, who turns 70 on October 9, 2020.

President Buhari felicitates with the Professor of Literacy and Open Distance Learning, his family, friends and professional colleagues, congratulating him for worthy and meritorious service to the nation, starting out as a Grade II teacher, and reaching the pinnacle of his teaching career through vision, wisdom and hard work.

As the university don clocks 70, and retires from service of the University of Ibadan, the President affirms that his contribution to the development of education in Nigeria deserves commendation, particularly his research and attention to adult education.

President Buhari urges the scholar to continue using his wealth of knowledge and experience in serving the country, especially at a time that government has prioritized education as most important step for development.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 8, 2020

Politics

Obasanjo Commends President Buhari On Akinwunmi’s Re-Election

By Web News 704

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has commended President Muhammed Buhari for the support given to the successful re-election of the President of the African Development Bank, AFDB, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina.

Chief Obasanjo in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Kehinde Akinyemi in Abeokuta also thanked some past and present African leaders for their supports.

The former President while hosting the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential library, Abeokuta, added his years of experience and doggedness played a vital role in the success so far made by him.

Chief Obasanjo called on Dr. Akinwunmi not to relent on his oars in making the country proud.

Culled from punchng.com

Sport

Team Sports Reopening: Sunday Dare Lauds President Buhari, PTF

By Web News 713

Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare has commended President Muhammadu Buhari and the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 for reopening team sports in line with Covid-19 guidelines.

The minister also thanked President Buhari for also reopening the NYSC Orientation camps for the sake of the youth population.  

The  National Coordinator of  the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19,  Dr. Sani Aliyu had on Thursday announced the reopening of sports without fans under the close supervision of  the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the National  Agency for Disease  Control. 

According to a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry Mr Gabriel Aduda, “We commend President Muhammadu Buhari, the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 for reopening football and team sports and the NYSC Orientation which has been  in the cooler  since the outbreak of Covid-19. We are happy that our athletes can now return to action and do what they know how best to do and our youth can return to camp. The last few months have been very tough for our athletes as well as the Ministry.” 

The statement adds that the ministry shall ensure full compliance with all necessary protocols and tests before approval is given for resumption of sporting activities and football matches. 

The ministry has set up a COVID-19 monitoring and approval team for every sport engagement and event.  

While assuring that all steps for the resumption of the Nigerian domestic League was ongoing, Aduda warned that the league would not resume until basic conditions were fulfilled.

“Indeed, the steps to return our football league to prime position is ongoing. The domestic League will not commence until the regulations and controls in the aspect of financial and licensing control are put in place. The NFF must  put clubs on notice and enforce these regulations and controls  as stipulated, otherwise  the Nigerian Professional and amateur Leagues would not be approved  for resumption”. 

Earlier, the minister had directed the NFF to  communicate with the clubs the need to comply fully with financial controls and regulation as stipulated in the rule book  before a date can be fixed for the resumption of the league. 

PR/Olaolu Fawole

Politics

President Buhari Approves Inclusive Independence Day Celebration

By Web News 759

As part of activities to mark the nation’s 60 anniversary, the Federal Government is to involve Nigerians from all works of life in Creating A national Brand for the celebration.

In a statement by the chairman Sub-committee, Innovation and Change of the National Diamond Jubilee Inter-ministerial Committee and Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Dr Isa PANTAMi, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the inclusive National Independence Celebration program in line with Covid-19 protocols and guidelines.

The statement says the thematic and creative aspects of the event would be designed by Nigerians for Nigeria with the theme of the celebration as “Together at 60.”

The statement says the creator of the chosen brand for the Diamond Jubilee will receive prizes, in addition to being part of the epoch-making event.

Olayemi Danyan

Politics

Buhari Approves Suspension of Magu as Acting EFCC Chairman

By Web News 703

President Buhari has approved the immediate suspension of Ibrahim Magu as Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to allow for unhindered inquiry by the Presidential Investigation Panel under the Tribunals of Inquiry Act and other relevant laws.

This is contained in a statement issued by Dr. Umar Jibrilu Gwandu, Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, made available to newsmen on Friday the 10th day of July, 2020.

According to the statement, President Buhari has also approved that the EFCC Director of Operations, Mohammed Umar, should take charge and oversee the activities of the Commission pending the conclusion of the ongoing investigation and further directives in that regards.

Signed.

*Dr. Umar Jibrilu Gwandu,*

Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations,

Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice,

Friday, 10th day of July 2020.

Religion

Eid-el-Fitr: President Buhari Felicitates with Nigerians

By Web News 666

President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Muslims to keep their spirits high, in spite of the Coronavirus pandemic, which has placed a heavy toll on the people’s spiritual, and socio-economic lives.

In his Sallah message to Muslims on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, the President notes that for the first time in recent years, the pandemic has put a damper on what would otherwise have been a time of celebration for Muslim faithful to mark the end of the Ramadan Fast.

According to President Buhari, this year’s fasting period has been particularly challenging for Muslims, who had to forego the usual congregational prayers and the recitation and interpretation of the Glorious Qur’an, as well as the performance of the Lesser Hajj, the Umrah.

While he notes the difficulty in giving up many of these spiritual obligations, President Buhari says the temporary ban on gatherings is imperative to limiting the spread of the disease.

He commends Nigerians for their sacrifices and co-operation in the enforcement of the social distancing guidelines, despite the inconveniences the tough measures imposed have brought on them.

President Buhari enjoins the citizenry to sustain their co-operation as no government will intentionally impose tough and demanding measures on its citizens if it has alternative choices.

The President says he is aware that the prolonged lockdown measures have badly affected businesses and other means of livelihood of Nigerians, assuring however that the measures will be reviewed periodically to ease the increasing hardship on the people.

He encourages well-to-do citizens to continue helping their needy neighbours with the token they have to help Nigeria come out of the pandemic stronger and more united.

President Buhari calls on Muslims to consider this year’s Eid event as an occasion for sober reflection rather than celebration, due to the long shadows of gloom that the pandemic has cast on people’s lives.

He prays Allah to ease the hardship among the people as they struggle hard to flatten the curve, while wishing all Nigerians Eid Mubarak.

Politics

President Buhari visits Ondo State to Commission Projects

By Web News 1049 Post a comment

President Mohammadu Buhari has arrived Akure, the Ondo state Capital to commission some projects in the state.

President Buhari arrived Akure airport at 11: 22am with some members of the Federal Executives.

The President’s visit is a part of activities marking the third anniversary of governor Akeredolu’s third year anniversary in office.

President Mohammed Buhari accompanied by some members of Federal executives were welcomed by Ondo State Governor, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and his Ekiti counterpart, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, then later inspected the guard of honour .

Some traditional leaders were also among dignitaries who received the President.

The Akure airport was filled with the people from all walks of life as well as Traditional dance groups from the state to welcome the President

Members of the All Progressive Congress, APC, registered their presence in thousands led by the State Chairman, Mr. Ade Adetimehin and other party leaders. 

The President was later airlifted with chopper to Ore town where he is expected to commission the Flyover and Ore industrial hub.  

President Muhammadu Buhari expressed optimism that Ondo state will soon become a more viable investment destination, creating jobs for teeming unemployed Nigerians.

The President stated this while commissioning the Ondo-Linyil Industrial Hub and the Ore interchange in Odigbo Local Government Area of the State.

President Buhari said the two projects would no doubt utilize locally available materials thus boosting the economy of the state.

He commended Governor Akeredolu for his administration’s dedication and commitment to deliver an all inclusive development to the people of Ondo state.

Earlier, Governor Akeredolu had explained that the industrial hub which included a Plywood Industry, Cassava Processing Company and Textile Company is established to reduce unemployment in the state while the Ore Flyover is meant to end traffic congestion along the ever busy Ore-Benin expressway.

Ore Plywood Plant

The Development Manager of the project, Mr Kalvin Zhu thanked the host community for assisting in ensuring that the project came into reality.

The event was attended by Governor Kayode Fayemi, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo state, Captains Of Industry, Top Government Functionaries, Traditional Rulers while the President’s entourage included the Minister of Trade of Trade and Investment, Chief Niyi Adebayo, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina among others.

Olorunferanmi Odofin/ Bukola Bardi